200807337 九、發明說明： 【發明所屬^技術領域】 相關申請案之交互表昭 本案請求美國臨時專利申請案第60/803,084號，申請曰 5 2006年5月24日，名稱「產品夾具監視系統及其方法」遵照 35 ILS.C· §119(e)之權益，該案全文揭示係以引用方式併入 此處。 發明領域 大致上本發明係有關於零售環境中展示商品或其它貨 1〇物品項用之系統，讓顧客可由展示架上取下品項來購買，、 更特別係有關提供自動檢測與通知非期望的品項展示狀況 之系統，該等狀況例如無現貨或低現貨狀況，及快速產品 配送或移除。 組織型零售竊賊(0RT)，也稱作為組織型零售犯罪 15 (ORC)正在快速變成零售商最重大的損失領域。每年於零售 業f成的損失成本估·計高度3百億美S，傳統的竊賊制^ 對策CCTV(閉路電視)與EAS(電子物件監視)證實大半為無 效。ORT經㈣涉大型義賊·，有複雜的分銷網料 重新包裝操作。竊賊可能以個人或團隊方式犯罪，個人或 川團隊接到指示來竊取大量的特殊產品。此等竊賊團隊係由 〇RT集團中的低階成員所組成，全部的動作都接收來自於 組織中高層的指示。集團在單日中通常係鎖定多個目標商 店，竊賊的年收人超過1G萬美元，因而讓〇RT高度㈣可圖。 早獨因貨物失竊所造成的損失重大，但由於貨架上無 5 200807337 現貨所造成的銷售損失更難以估算。〇RT竊賊從貨架上「掃 掉」目標商品，造成未剩下任何商品可供鎖售。 無現貨的情況無論係由於竊賊所造成，或由於常規的 銷售所造成，對零售商都有害。無現貨情況造成錯失銷售 5商機，威脅顧客的忠誠度，於某些情況下，甚至可能違反 零售商的法定義務(諸如WIC計劃要求在貨架上須維持特定 的嬰兒配方產品）。 曾經報告ORT集團於偷竊時通常係未使用武力。反而 一旦被偵破ORT集團即逃離現場。此外，於失竊的愈早期 10偵測得竊賊，則損失的暴露愈低(原因在於累積被竊取的商 如愈少）。此外’當犯罪者深入商店内部時，偵破貨架遭竊 賊的掃除有關鍵性好處，原因在於當竊賊移動愈靠門口， 則愈可能連同商品一起逃脫，而非抛下商品竄逃。 要言之，零售商獲得其商店内部的關鍵性商品有不尋 15常移動的即時資訊有利。對低現貨情況以及無現貨情況， 提供較高能見度，可增加產品監視辦法的進一步價值。本 發明係設計來滿足此等需求。 I：先前技術3 發明背景 接收到請求信號且回應於該接收到請求信號而產生配 送信號之一種自動化藥物配送系統，例如顯示於美國專利 案6,814,255(Liff等人)；監視與識別食品由顧客從儲櫃中 取出之一種自動化自助餐系統顯示於美國專利案 6，102，162(Teicher)。其它存貨安全系統顯示於美國專利案 6 200807337 6,693,539(Johnson)、5，151，684(Bowers 等人）、6 6〇〇,418 (Francis專人），無線導向庫存系統顯示於美國專利案 6,650,225(Bastian，II等人）；及個人庫存管理系統例如係由 美國專利案 6,851，611(Shaw-Sinclair)所揭示。 5 此處引用的全部參考文獻全文皆以引用方式併入此處。 I：發明内容3 發明概要 根據本發明之一個態樣，提供一種用於產品展示裝置 或夾具之監視系統。產品展示裝置或夾具係配置成讓貨物 10品項可由商業環境中的客戶自行取下。產品展示裝置或夾 具包含儲存多個貨物品項之至少一個儲存區，以及耦接至 該儲存區之至少一個出口，個別貨物品項可由顧客由該出 口取出，或由該出口配送予顧客。 監視系統包含至少一個感測器以及搞接至該至少一個 15感測器之至少一個電子裝置。至少一個感測器係配置成相 鄰於該至少一個儲存區或該至少一個出口，來當一貨物品 項係由該產品展示裝置或夾具被取出或配送時，提供一第 一電氣彳§號予該電子裝置。電子裝置經配置來處理該第一 電氣信號，允許判定該貨物品項由產品展示裝置或夹具被 20取出或配送的速率，藉此提供可能的竊賊指示，例如大規 模的品項竊賊。 根據本發明之一較佳態樣但非必要，該電子裝置係基 於微處理器，至少一個感測器係配置來於檢測到一貨物品 項位於該處時提供一觸發信號予該基於微處理器之裝置， 7 200807337 此處該基於微處理器之裂置引發一個時間窗或時間週期， 例如可調整式時間窗或時間週期，於該時間窗或時間週期 期間，該基於微處理器之襄置計算第—電氣信號數目（欲計 算之第-電氣信號數目本身為可調整），且判定於該時間窗 5或時間週期期間所接收到的第一電氣信號總數是否達到一 預設臨界值，若是，則提供-「配送速率警示信號」輸出。 根據本發明之另-態樣，本發明係由產品展示裝置或 夾具與該監視系統所組成。 圖式簡單說明 1〇 將連同附圖說明本發明，附圖中類似的元件符號係表 示各圖間類似的元件，附圖中： /第1圖為根據本發明所組成之系統實例之示意圖，該特 定系統為監視由多個重力進給的儲存架或夾具配送/移出 嬰兒配方罐頭之系統； 15 帛2圖為形成第1圖所示系統之-部分之監視控制器 (後文稱作為FMS-IC單元)之-個實例之頂視透視圖； 第3圖為底視圖，顯示第2圖所示之監脸制器之底部； 第4圖為第2圖之監視控制器之側視圖，顯示接收多個 個別感測為（例如開關)輪入用之多個輸入連接器； 20 f 5圖為構成第1圖所示系統之-部分之儲存/配送架 或夾具之一個實例之透視圖； 第6圖為①成第丨圖之系統之_部分之感㈣（例如微 開關）之實例之透視圖； 帛7圖為利用本發明之另一種產品展示裝置或失具之 8 200807337 透視圖，例如典型之配送物項之推桿夾具用來將物項頂出 夾具之外（而與使用重力由夾具中配送物項相反），其配合_ 個或多個感測器來觸動FMS-IC單元； 口 第8圖為透視圖，顯示可用於本發明之系統之兩種业型 5推桿裝置，顯示於下方之裝置為單一開關推桿實例/而顯 不於上方之裝置為多開關推桿實例；、 第9A圖為透視圖顯示可用於本發明之推桿操作機制. 第9B圖為第9A圖所示推桿機制之一部分之特寫側視圖 第1〇圖為類似第7圖之推桿之推桿透視圖’但係使用護 10板來防止一次移出多個商品；200807337 IX. Invention Description: [Inventions belong to the technical field] The interactive application of the relevant application filed in the United States Provisional Patent Application No. 60/803,084, application 曰5 May 24, 2006, the name "product fixture monitoring system and The method is based on the benefit of 35 ILS.C. § 119(e), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention generally relates to a system for displaying merchandise or other items in a retail environment, allowing customers to purchase items from the display stand, and more particularly to provide automatic detection and notification of undesired A system for the display of conditions such as out-of-stock or low-spot conditions, and rapid product distribution or removal. Organizational retail thieves (0RT), also known as organizational retail crimes 15 (ORC), are rapidly becoming the most significant loss area for retailers. The annual cost of loss in the retail industry is estimated to be 3 billion US dollars. The traditional thief system CCTV (closed circuit television) and EAS (electronic object surveillance) prove that most of it is invalid. ORT (four) involved in large-scale thieves, there are complex distribution network materials repackaging operations. A thief may sin in a personal or team manner, and an individual or a team member is instructed to steal a large number of special products. These thieves' teams are made up of low-level members of the 〇RT group, all of which receive instructions from the middle of the organization. In a single day, the group usually locks in multiple target stores. The thief's annual income exceeds 1 million US dollars, thus making the 〇RT height (four) visible. The loss caused by the theft of the goods was significant, but the sales losses caused by the lack of stock on the shelves were more difficult to estimate. 〇RT thieves “sweep” the target merchandise from the shelf, leaving no merchandise for sale. Out-of-stock conditions are harmful to retailers, whether caused by thieves or due to regular sales. Out-of-stock conditions result in missed sales. 5 Business opportunities that threaten customer loyalty and, in some cases, may even violate retailers' legal obligations (such as the WIC program requires that certain infant formulas be maintained on the shelf). It has been reported that the ORT Group usually uses no force when stealing. Instead, once they were detected, the ORT Group fled the scene. In addition, the earlier the theft, the more thieves were detected, the lower the exposure was (due to the less accumulated scams). In addition, when the perpetrators go inside the store, the detection of the removal of the stolen thief is a key benefit. The reason is that as the thief moves closer to the door, the more likely it is to escape with the merchandise instead of throwing away the merchandise. To put it bluntly, it is beneficial for retailers to obtain key information within their stores that does not have the usual information to move. Providing higher visibility for low-spot conditions and out-of-stock conditions can increase the value of product surveillance. The present invention is designed to meet these needs. I. Prior Art 3 BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION An automated drug delivery system that receives a request signal and generates a delivery signal in response to the receipt of the request signal, for example, is shown in U.S. Patent No. 6,814,255 (Liff et al.); An automated buffet system that is removed from the cabinet is shown in U.S. Patent 6,102,162 (Teicher). Other inventory security systems are shown in U.S. Patent Nos. 6, 200807337 6,693,539 (Johnson), 5,151,684 (Bowers et al.), 6 6 〇〇, 418 (Francis), and wireless guided inventory systems are shown in U.S. Patent 6,650,225 (Bastian). , II et al.); and personal inventory management systems are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 6,851,611 (Shaw-Sinclair). All references cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. I: SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Summary of the Invention In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a monitoring system for a product display device or fixture is provided. The product display device or fixture is configured to allow the goods 10 items to be removed by the customer in the commercial environment. The product display device or fixture includes at least one storage area for storing a plurality of items of goods, and at least one outlet coupled to the storage area, the individual items of goods may be taken by the customer from the outlet or delivered to the customer by the outlet. The monitoring system includes at least one sensor and at least one electronic device coupled to the at least one sensor. At least one sensor configured to be adjacent to the at least one storage area or the at least one outlet to provide a first electrical 彳§ when a item of merchandise is removed or dispensed by the product display device or fixture The electronic device is given. The electronic device is configured to process the first electrical signal to allow determination of the rate at which the item of merchandise is removed or dispensed by the product display device or fixture 20, thereby providing a possible thief indication, such as a large-scale item thief. According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, but not necessarily, the electronic device is based on a microprocessor, and the at least one sensor is configured to provide a trigger signal to the micro-processing when detecting that a item of goods is located there Device, 7 200807337 The microprocessor-based cleavage here initiates a time window or time period, such as an adjustable time window or time period during which the microprocessor-based 襄Calculating the number of the first electrical signals (the number of the first electrical signals to be calculated is itself adjustable), and determining whether the total number of first electrical signals received during the time window 5 or the time period reaches a predetermined threshold value, If yes, provide - "Delivery Rate Alert Signal" output. According to another aspect of the invention, the invention consists of a product display device or fixture and the monitoring system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements in the drawings, in which: FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a system according to the present invention. The specific system is a system for monitoring the delivery/removal of infant formula cans by a plurality of gravity fed storage racks or jigs; 15 帛 2 is a monitoring controller forming part of the system shown in Fig. 1 (hereinafter referred to as FMS) -IC unit) - a top view of an example; Figure 3 is a bottom view showing the bottom of the monitor shown in Figure 2; Figure 4 is a side view of the monitor controller of Figure 2. Displaying a plurality of input connectors for receiving a plurality of individual sensed (eg, switch) wheels; 20 f 5 is a perspective view of an example of a storage/distribution rack or fixture that forms part of the system of FIG. Figure 6 is a perspective view of an example of a system of the first embodiment of the system (4) (e.g., a micro-switch); Figure 7 is a perspective view of another product display device or a missing device of the present invention 8 200807337 , for example, a typical push item fixture for a delivery item The item is pushed out of the fixture (as opposed to using the gravity to be delivered from the fixture), which cooperates with one or more sensors to activate the FMS-IC unit; Figure 8 is a perspective view showing that it can be used for this Two types of 5 push rod devices of the system of the invention, the device shown below is a single switch pusher example / the device shown above is a multi-switch push rod example; the 9A figure is a perspective view display can be used for the present The push rod operating mechanism of the invention. Fig. 9B is a close-up side view of a part of the push rod mechanism shown in Fig. 9A. Fig. 1 is a perspective view of the putter similar to the push rod of Fig. 7 but using a protective plate Prevent multiple items from being removed at one time;
第11圖為又另一種推桿實例之透視圖，但係使用護 板；以及 X 第12圖為單純釘鉤結合感測器來檢測物項從釘鉤上被 移除之透視圖。Figure 11 is a perspective view of yet another example of a putter, but using a guard; and X Figure 12 is a simple hook-and-loop sensor to detect a perspective view of the item being removed from the hook.
15 t貧施方式;J 較佳實施例之詳細說明 現在參照附圖中之各圖，其中類似的元件符號係指類 似的零組件，於第1圖之20顯示根據本發明所組成之夾具監 视系統（「F M S」）之實例。該？厘8系統提供監視各類型商品 2〇或物項配送夾具及於零售環境出售的商品之「狀態」之一 種具有成本效益之方法。FMS之主要目的係提供非期望之 Ν况，特別為：無現貨、低現貨、及快速的產品配送或取 出之自動檢測與通知。此種通知讓店員有機會即刻對此種 可成影響商店利潤與損失的情況採行動作。本系統也有其 9 200807337 它次級應用。 產品失具監視系統(FMS)配置來提供高度彈性，允許 實質上監視任何類型的產品或可妥善配置有感測裝置或開 關之炎具。感測裝置或開關於後文通稱為「感測器」。最基 5本的FMS系統20係由兩大元件所組成，亦即監視產品的出 現與移動之至少一個感測器（第丨、5及6圖）22及一個電子裝 置或電子單元24，於後文稱作為FMS智慧型控制器或稱作 為「FMS-IC」，該電子裝置為用作為FMS系統20之r大腦」 的基於微處理器之輸入/輸出裝置。 10 容後詳述，FMS-IC單元24係安裝於欲監視之商品所位 在的夾具/配送器中或附近。視情況而定，單一感測器22或 多個感測器22可使用短長度的導體纜線28來連接至 FMS-IC單元24之個別輸入26。感測器細節容後詳述。現在 陳述感測器可屬於任一種適當類型即足。於此處所示實例 15中’感測器包含習知開關例如單極微開關。也可使用其它 類型開關或其它類型感測器。總而言之，各個感測器22係 配置來當作動時例如當接觸封閉時，可經由個別纜線28提 供一電氣信號至該FMS-IC單元24之個別輸入26來觸發該 FMS-IC單元24。 20 於第1圖中，FMS系統20係顯示為監視嬰兒配方罐頭1〇 之配送之應用用途。於本應用中，嬰兒配方罐頭被固定於 四個重力進給的展示夾具30A、30B、30C及30D中展示。各 個爽具之組成由第5圖最明白顯示。須指出FMS系統20無需 有四個夾具，反而可只包括一個夾具或當使用FMS-IC單元 10 200807337 24之κ例％可有高達人個的任何夾具數目（原因在於 FMS-IC單元24之實例有八個輸入26)。也可設置有多於八個 輸入的其它FMS4C單元24。 於所不具體實施例中，夾具3〇八_遍係配置來固定於 5商業環境例如商店中的貨架（圖中未顯示）。各爽具黯補 包括多個個別嬰兒配方罐頭1〇所位在且所通過的路徑。路 徑係向下延伸，讓罐頭於重力作用之下順著該路徑滾下至 失具的出口 32。類似第6圖所示，感測器22係安裝於相鄰於 出口 32之夾具上，如第5圖所示。如前文說明，各個感測器 10 22係透過一個別導體或個別纜線28而電連接至FMS_IC單 兀24之-個別電連接器輸入％，如第2韻所示。各個感測 器22係配置來當由一嬰兒配方罐頭滾過其上時關閉。如此 當各個嬰兒配方罐頭由相關聯的夾具所配送或取出時，指 不該種情況的電氣信號提供tFMS-ic單元24。當連接的夾 15具中之至少一者於其個別路徑中缺乏罐頭時，FMS系統20 之FMS-IC單元24提供電氣輸出信號，該電氣輸出信號構成 低現貨警報。換言之，FMS系統2〇經過規劃來當預選定數 目之夾具30A_30D於其個別路徑中缺乏預選定數目的罐頭 時發出低現貨警報。舉例言之，於第丨圖所示具體實施例 20中，FMS系統20於有一個、兩個、三個或全部夾具最多缺 兩個罐頭時提供低現貨警報，原因在於感測器22係設置來 監控由出口 32算起第二個罐頭1〇。 FMS-IC單元24係配置成當感測器觸發FMS_IC單元之 輸入26時，由該單元所建立的可調整式時間窗或時間週期 11 200807337 開啟（開始）。於該時間窗或時間週期期間，FMS_IC單元^ 计异由感測器所接收到的輸入。若跨全部輸入26所累加的 總數達到預設臨界值，則FMS_IC單元％對預定時間週期例 如2秒提供電氣輸出信號。此種輸出信號係由單一、形」 5樣式開關所提供，用作為「配送速率警報」，用來警告電源 在一段時間週期以内有太多商品被移出，藉此指示可能有 正在進行中之大規模竊賊行動。 建立何時發出配送速率警告信號的標準係在F M s _】c 單兀24中建立。為了達成該項目的，於該單元上可調整兩 10種設定值，各有一個分開的撥盤。可未開啟或重新規劃 FMS-IC單元24之外殼或殼體而改變設定值。兩種可調整式 設定值為「時間」及「計數值」。「時間」設定值係建立欲 監視的品項配送計數之時間窗或時間週期，内設值設定為 5-90秒。但FMS-IC單元24也可支援任何時間範圍的習常組 15配結構。撥盤上面有指標來指示所建立的特定時間窗，例 如設定值「0」為5秒，「1」為1〇秒，「2」為2〇秒等。「計數 值」设疋撥盤係確定對一段給定時間週期之最大計數數 目。「計數值」的内設設定值為1-9計數值，但FMS-IC單元 24支援任何要求數目的習常組配結構。如此，時間用之時 20間撥盤設定值和計數值用之計數值撥盤設定值可確定（於 前文規定之時間範圍内）所需感測器輸入數目，來引發「配 送速率警報」輸出。 除了计异所觸發的輸入數目之外，FMS-IC單元24也監 視其輸入26來確保全部都「正常」，表示FMS_lc單元以感 12 200807337 测到貨物都就定位。當全部輸入判定為「偏離正常」經歷 一段短時間時，FMS_IC單元24作動任何專用的輸出來提供 電氣信號。此種信號為「低現貨信號」或「無現貨信號」（依 據感測器/應用用途決定），可用來通知商店店員需要對展示 5夾具重新補貨。本輸出也係由單一的「C形」樣式之開關所 提供’該開關於產品被補充之後才栓鎖。 來自於FMS-1C單元24的輸出信號無論係呈「配送速率 警報」信號、「低現貨」信號或「無現貨」信號或其任一種 組合形式，皆可用來觸動一個外部系統，警告電源或其它 10人有異常狀況發生。外部系統可具有任何期望的組態結 構。一種外部系統實例顯示於第1圖。為了達成該項目的， FMS-IC單tl24提供其輸出信號予一無線發射器34。發射器 34係配置來無線發射警報信號或低現貨信號或無現貨信號 予某個位在遠端的接收器。該外部系統也包括視訊顯= 15器、警報發聲器、光或任何其它零售商期望的設備中之一 者或多者。於所示實施例中，外部系統包括一無線接收器 36、-傳呼發射器38、及1傳呼機4〇，全部皆係位在一個 或多個遠端位置’例如零售商店的後方房間内。前述任一 種輸出也可用來觸動商店内的行銷顯示裝置、CCTv錄影系 20 統、音訊記錄、折價券配送器等。 熟諳技藝人士須瞭解’ ms系統2G可直接安裝於各個 製造商的貨架，用來於夾具位置檢測不尋常的產品狀況， 將該資訊發送回商店的中心位置所在，通知商店店員。 FMS-IC單元24也可具有任-種適當組成。占:第貝2:4圖 13 200807337 所示具體實施例中’FMS-IC單元24係由電池42(例如六顆常 用「AA」鹼性電池)供電，電池可供長達一年的操作之用。 電池艙44位在FMS-IC單元24的底部，如第3圖所示且由可 開啟的電池門（圖中未顯示）所覆蓋。如前文說明，FMuc 5單元24包括八個輸入26。各個輸入係呈插入即用的終端。 該終端允許FMS-IC單元24連接至多個夾具及/或感測器，同 時自動判定有多少個終端正在使用中。 須指出，本發明之FMS系統20並非限於使用重力進給 配送器，類似前文參照第丨圖及第5圖所示。如此FMS系統 10 20可用於利用稱作為產品「推桿」的品項展示器或配送器。 產品推桿為-種習知裝置’其具體實施例顯示於第7视 圖。於使用產品推桿的配送用途中，推桿裝配有一個或多 個感測器22來於產品被移出時觸動;?露1(：單元24。由於多 種產品可使用推桿展示，故此種配送應用涉及推桿總成、 15開關及/或產品護板的多項組合。 於第7圖中，顯示一種典型習知推桿夾具，該推桿夹具 有-推桿46使用多個獨立的载荷有彈菁的葉片，來將貨物 品項推送到展示架的前方。 第8圖顯示單開關推桿48和開關推㈣之實例。單開關 20版本適合用於貨品頂上有護板52(第_)，一次只允許取出 一項貨物的情況。當貨物被取出時，於最前方品項下方的 開關22(圖中未顯示)被觸動。然後後方的品項朝向前方推進 至》亥開關，FMS系統20準備重新開始計數。多開關推桿％ 適合用於開啟展示架，此處—次可取出多個產品。於此種 14 200807337 情況下’當推桿前進移動時觸動順著其路徑上的感測器 22 ’因此移動多個產品，結果導致有多次輸入通訊至 FMS-IC單元24。開關量和間隔距離可改變來配合不同的產 品尺寸。 5 第9A圖及第9B圖顯示用於本發明之一推桿機制之實 例。於此種配置中，感測器或開關22係定位成騎在載荷有 彈黃的葉片上，接觸順著軌道所安裝的多個開槽。DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S) DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT Referring now to the drawings in the drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to the An instance of the system ("FMS"). What? The PCT system provides a cost-effective way to monitor the “state” of each type of item 2 or item delivery fixture and the item sold in the retail environment. The primary purpose of the FMS is to provide undesired conditions, in particular: automatic detection and notification of out-of-stock, low-spot, and fast product delivery or take-out. This kind of notice gives the clerk an opportunity to take action immediately on this kind of situation that can affect the profit and loss of the store. This system also has its 9 200807337 secondary application. The Product Disorder Monitoring System (FMS) is configured to provide a high degree of resiliency, allowing virtually any type of product to be monitored or a sanitary device that can be properly configured with a sensing device or switch. The sensing device or switch is hereinafter referred to as a "sensor". The most basic 5 FMS system 20 is composed of two major components, namely at least one sensor (Fig. 5, 6 and 6) 22 for monitoring the appearance and movement of the product, and an electronic device or electronic unit 24, Hereinafter, it will be referred to as an FMS smart controller or "FMS-IC", which is a microprocessor-based input/output device used as the r brain of the FMS system 20. 10 Details, the FMS-IC unit 24 is installed in or near the jig/dispenser where the item to be monitored is located. A single sensor 22 or multiple sensors 22 may be connected to the individual inputs 26 of the FMS-IC unit 24 using short length conductor cables 28, as appropriate. The sensor details are detailed later. It is now stated that the sensor can be of any suitable type. The sensor in Example 15 shown herein includes a conventional switch such as a single pole microswitch. Other types of switches or other types of sensors can also be used. In summary, each sensor 22 is configured to act as a motion, such as when the contact is closed, by providing an electrical signal via an individual cable 28 to an individual input 26 of the FMS-IC unit 24 to trigger the FMS-IC unit 24. 20 In Figure 1, the FMS system 20 is shown for use in monitoring the delivery of infant formula cans. In this application, the infant formula cans are shown fixed in four gravity fed display fixtures 30A, 30B, 30C, and 30D. The composition of each cool piece is most clearly shown in Figure 5. It should be noted that the FMS system 20 does not need to have four fixtures, but instead may include only one fixture or any number of fixtures that can have up to one person when using the FMS-IC unit 10 200807337 24 (due to the example of the FMS-IC unit 24) There are eight inputs 26). Other FMS4C units 24 with more than eight inputs can also be provided. In a non-specific embodiment, the clamps are configured to be secured to a shelf in a commercial environment, such as a store (not shown). Each refreshing includes a path in which multiple individual infant formula cans are located and passed. The path extends downwardly, allowing the can to roll down the path to the outlet 32 of the lost gear under the force of gravity. As shown in Fig. 6, the sensor 22 is mounted on a jig adjacent to the outlet 32 as shown in Fig. 5. As previously explained, each sensor 10 22 is electrically coupled to the individual electrical connector input % of the FMS_IC unit 24 via a separate conductor or individual cable 28, as shown in the second rhyme. Each sensor 22 is configured to close when it is rolled over by an infant formula can. Thus, when each infant formula can is dispensed or removed by an associated fixture, the electrical signal indicative of this condition provides the tFMS-ic unit 24. When at least one of the connected clips lacks cans in their individual paths, the FMS-IC unit 24 of the FMS system 20 provides an electrical output signal that constitutes a low spot alarm. In other words, the FMS system 2 is programmed to issue a low spot alert when the pre-selected number of fixtures 30A-30D lack a pre-selected number of cans in their individual paths. For example, in the specific embodiment 20 shown in the figure, the FMS system 20 provides a low spot alarm when there are one, two, three or all fixtures missing at most two cans because the sensor 22 is set To monitor the second can from the exit 32. The FMS-IC unit 24 is configured such that when the sensor triggers the input 26 of the FMS_IC unit, the adjustable time window or time period 11 200807337 established by the unit is turned on (start). During this time window or time period, the FMS_IC unit calculates the input received by the sensor. If the total number of accumulated values across all inputs 26 reaches a predetermined threshold, the FMS_IC unit % provides an electrical output signal for a predetermined time period, e.g., 2 seconds. This output signal is provided by a single, "5" style switch and is used as a "distribution rate alarm" to warn that the power supply has been removed from the product within a period of time, indicating that there may be a large amount in progress. Scale thief action. The criteria for establishing when to issue a delivery rate warning signal are established in F M s _]c 兀24. In order to achieve the project, two or more settings can be adjusted on the unit, each with a separate dial. The set value may be changed without opening or re-planning the housing or housing of the FMS-IC unit 24. The two adjustable settings are Time and Count. The “Time” setting is the time window or time period for which the item delivery count to be monitored is established. The internal value is set to 5-90 seconds. However, the FMS-IC unit 24 can also support a conventional group 15 configuration in any time range. There are indicators on the dial to indicate the specific time window that is created. For example, the set value “0” is 5 seconds, “1” is 1 second, and “2” is 2 seconds. The “count value” setting dial is used to determine the maximum number of counts for a given period of time. The set value of the "count value" is 1-9 count value, but the FMS-IC unit 24 supports any required number of conventional assembly structures. In this way, when the time is used, the dial setting value of the 20 dial setting values and the count value can be used to determine the number of required sensor inputs (within the time range specified above) to trigger the "delivery rate alarm" output. . In addition to the number of inputs triggered by the scoring, the FMS-IC unit 24 also monitors its input 26 to ensure that all are "normal", indicating that the FMS_lc unit is positioned with the sense 12 200807337. When all inputs are judged to be "off normal" for a short period of time, FMS_IC unit 24 activates any dedicated output to provide an electrical signal. This signal is either “Low Spot Signal” or “No Spot Signal” (depending on the sensor/application usage) and can be used to inform the store clerk that the fixture must be restocked. This output is also provided by a single "C-shaped" switch. The switch is latched after the product has been replenished. The output signal from the FMS-1C unit 24 can be used to activate an external system, warning power or other, whether it is a "distribution rate alarm" signal, a "low spot" signal or a "out of stock" signal or any combination thereof. 10 people have abnormal conditions. The external system can have any desired configuration structure. An example of an external system is shown in Figure 1. To achieve this, the FMS-IC unit tl24 provides its output signal to a wireless transmitter 34. The transmitter 34 is configured to wirelessly transmit an alarm signal or a low spot signal or a spotless signal to a remotely located receiver. The external system also includes one or more of a video display device, an alarm sounder, light, or any other device desired by the retailer. In the illustrated embodiment, the external system includes a wireless receiver 36, a pager transmitter 38, and a pager 4, all in one or more remote locations, such as in a rear room of a retail store. Any of the above outputs can also be used to activate the marketing display device in the store, the CCTv video system, the audio recording, the discount coupon dispenser, and the like. Skilled people must understand that the 'MS System 2G can be installed directly on the shelf of each manufacturer to detect unusual product conditions at the fixture location, send the information back to the store's central location, and notify the store clerk. The FMS-IC unit 24 can also have any suitable composition. Occupation: Baye 2:4 Figure 13 200807337 In the specific embodiment, the 'FMS-IC unit 24 is powered by a battery 42 (for example, six commonly used "AA" alkaline batteries), and the battery can be operated for up to one year. use. The battery compartment 44 is located at the bottom of the FMS-IC unit 24, as shown in Figure 3 and is covered by an openable battery door (not shown). As previously explained, the FMuc 5 unit 24 includes eight inputs 26. Each input is a plug-and-play terminal. The terminal allows the FMS-IC unit 24 to be connected to a plurality of fixtures and/or sensors while automatically determining how many terminals are in use. It should be noted that the FMS system 20 of the present invention is not limited to the use of gravity feed dispensers, as previously described with reference to Figures and Figure 5. Thus, the FMS system 10 20 can be used to utilize a product display or dispenser referred to as a product "push". The product putter is a conventional device', and its specific embodiment is shown in the seventh view. In a dispensing application using a product putter, the push rod is equipped with one or more sensors 22 to be activated when the product is removed; 露 1 (: unit 24. Since a variety of products can be displayed using a putter, such delivery The application relates to a plurality of combinations of pusher assemblies, 15 switches and/or product shields. In Figure 7, a typical conventional pusher clamp is shown having a pusher 46 using a plurality of independent loads. The blade of the phthalocyanine is used to push the item of goods to the front of the display frame. Figure 8 shows an example of a single-switch push rod 48 and a switch push (four). The single-switch 20 version is suitable for use on the top of the product with a guard 52 (第_) , only one item can be taken out at a time. When the goods are taken out, the switch 22 (not shown) under the foremost item is touched. Then the rear item is pushed forward to the "Hai switch", FMS system 20 Ready to restart counting. Multi-switch pusher % is suitable for opening the display stand. Here, multiple products can be taken out. In the case of this kind of 2008 200807337, the feeling of touching the path when the push rod moves forward Detector 22' so move more The result is that there are multiple input communications to the FMS-IC unit 24. The switching and separation distances can be varied to match different product sizes. 5 Figures 9A and 9B show one of the push rod mechanisms used in the present invention. In this configuration, the sensor or switch 22 is positioned to ride on a blade that has a yellowed load, contacting a plurality of slots mounted along the track.
於第1〇圖顯示使用護板52來防止一次移出多個產品之 種推才干文具。於弟11圖顯示另一種爽具，其包括護板配 ίο置來防止一次取出多個產品。此種裝置可構成本發明之系 統20之一部分，且包括相鄰於產品下方的支承軌道之感測 器22(圖中未顯示）。 其它可利用本發明之配送/顯示應用用途也意圖涵蓋 於本4明。例如一項應用為釘鉤應用，如第圖所示。於 • 15此項應用中，製作單純的習知釘釣％，結合感測器22(圖中Figure 1 shows a push-up stationery that uses a guard 52 to prevent multiple products from being removed at a time. Yu Di 11 shows another kind of cool, which includes a guard plate to prevent multiple products from being taken out at a time. Such a device may form part of the system 20 of the present invention and includes a sensor 22 (not shown) adjacent to the support track below the product. Other distribution/display application uses in which the present invention may be utilized are also intended to be encompassed by the present invention. For example, an application is a hook application, as shown in the figure. In the 15 application, the simple custom nail fishing% is combined with the sensor 22 (in the figure)
另一項本發明涵蓋之應 用用迷為開放貝架」用途（圖中未顯示）。雖然釘釣用途和 開放貨架用途比較推桿用途(諸如第7]〇圖所示），或封閉式 爽具用途(類似幻圖及第5圖之嬰兒配方展示架，或第_ 20之夾具)更難以實施，但仍然意、圖涵蓋於本發明之範圍且構 成本發明之一部分。 如熟諳技藝人士由前文說明瞭解，前文顯示及說明之 FMS系統2G之實例具有下列值得注意之特徵。fms_ic單元 24係由電池供電，例如使用六顆習知的「aa」驗性電池供 15 200807337 :狀提供長達一年的操作期，罩在一個小型包圍體内方便 t ;貝物展示夾具的後方、下方、或内部。FMS-IC單元 24可支接古、土 ^ 阿達8個感測器輸入來連接多個夾具或產品感測 < 自動判定有多少個輸入正在使用中。該單元也包括 5 應用之辅助輸入，以及連接外部系統(說明如前)之兩個 I出i如珂述，該等輸出係由單一「C形」樣式開關所提供。 ^門*或時間週期以及每個週期的事件計數值可透過調整 式馬輪或撥盤來個別調整。系統也包括輸出LED，顯示各 们感邓為的作動、輸出狀態和電池電力低的情況。此等輪 10出可用於安裝/排除故障，或作為指示系統安裝的視覺指 示提供竊取犯罪的發生。全部輸入和輸出皆係由活動式 終端插頭提供。殼體内的電池艙可設有容易開啟的近接 門表後’ FMS-IC單元24包括RS232串列通訊埠來連接至 電腦或若干其它處理裝置。 15 雖然已經參照特定實例詳細說明本發明，但熟諳技藝 人士須瞭解可未悖離本發明之精髓或範圍於其中做出多項 變化及修改。 【鬮式簡單說明】 第1圖為根據本發明所組成之系統實例之示意圖，該特 20定系統為監視由多個重力進給的儲存架或夾具配送/移出 嬰兒配方罐頭之系統； 第2圖為形成第1圖所示系統之一部分之監視控制器 (後文稱作為FMS-IC單元)之一個實例之頂視透視圖； 第3圖為底視圖，顯示第2圖所示之監視控制器之底部； 16 200807337 弟4圖為第2圖之監視控制器之側視圖，顯 個別感難(例如開晴人用之多個輸人連接器；夕個 =5®為構成第丨圖所料、統之—部分之儲存/配送 或夾具之一個實例之透視圖； 一 形細圖之系統之—部分之感測器（例如微 開關）之貝例之透視圖；Another application encompassed by the present invention is the use of open shelves (not shown). Although the use of nailing and open shelf use is compared to putter use (such as shown in Figure 7), or closed-type cool use (similar to the fantasy and the baby formula display stand of Figure 5, or the _ 20 fixture) It is more difficult to implement, but it is intended to cover the scope of the invention and form part of the invention. As familiar to those skilled in the art, the examples of the FMS system 2G shown and described above have the following notable features. The fms_ic unit 24 is powered by a battery, for example, using six conventional "aa" test batteries for 15 200807337: providing a period of up to one year of operation, hooded in a small enclosure to facilitate t; Rear, bottom, or interior. The FMS-IC unit 24 can support 8 sensors input from ancient and earthy Ada to connect multiple fixtures or product sensing < Automatically determine how many inputs are in use. The unit also includes the auxiliary inputs for the 5 applications and the two I outputs that are connected to the external system (described above), which are provided by a single "C-shaped" style switch. ^The door* or time period and the event count value for each cycle can be individually adjusted by adjusting the carriage or dial. The system also includes an output LED that shows how each of the senses is active, the output state, and the battery power is low. These rounds are available for installation/removal, or as a visual indication of system installation to provide for theft. All inputs and outputs are provided by the mobile terminal plug. The battery compartment in the housing can be provided with an easy-to-open proximity door. The FMS-IC unit 24 includes an RS232 serial communication port for connection to a computer or several other processing devices. Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to the specific embodiments thereof, it is to be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made therein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an example of a system for monitoring the delivery/removal of infant formula cans by a plurality of gravity fed storage racks or clamps; The figure is a top perspective view of an example of a monitoring controller (hereinafter referred to as an FMS-IC unit) forming part of the system shown in Fig. 1; and Fig. 3 is a bottom view showing the monitoring control shown in Fig. 2. The bottom of the device; 16 200807337 Brother 4 is a side view of the monitoring controller of Figure 2, which is difficult to see (for example, multiple input connectors for Kaiqing people; Xi = 5® for the first map) a perspective view of an example of storage/distribution or fixtures; a perspective view of a part of a system (eg, a microswitch);
第7圖為利用本發明之另一種產品展示震置或夾且之 透視圖，例如典型之配送物項之推桿夾具用來將物項頂出 夾具之外（ffij與使用重力由央具中配送物項相反），其配合一 10個或多個感测器來觸動FMS_IC單元； 弟8圖為透視圖，顯示可用於本發明之系統之兩種业型 推桿裝置，顯示於下方之裝置為單一開關推桿實例，而顯 不於上方之裝置為多開關推桿實例； 第9A圖為透視圖顯示可用於本發明之推桿操作機制； 15第9B圖為第9A圖所示推桿機制之一部分之特寫侧視圖； 第10圖為類似第7圖之推桿之推桿透視圖，但係使用護 板來防止一次移出多個商品； 第11圖為又另-種推桿實例之透視圖，值係使用護 板；以及 第12圖為單純釘鉤結合感測器來檢測物項從釘釣上被 移除之透視圖。 【主要元件符號說明】 10…22...感測器 20...FMS糸統、爽具監視系統 24...FMS-IC單元 17 200807337 26···輸入 42..電池 28…纜線 44··.電池搶 30A-D···重力進給式展示夾具 46…推桿 32···出口 48...單開關推桿 34…無線發射器 50...多開關推桿 36…無線接收器 52…護板 38…傳呼發射器 54…釘鉤 40". α傳呼機 18Figure 7 is a perspective view showing a shock or clip using another product of the present invention, for example, a pusher jig for a typical dispensing item is used to push an item out of the jig (ffij and using gravity from the centering device) The delivery item is reversed), which cooperates with a 10 or more sensors to activate the FMS_IC unit; Figure 8 is a perspective view showing two types of commercial pusher devices that can be used in the system of the present invention, shown below For a single switch pusher example, the upper display device is a multi-switch push rod example; FIG. 9A is a perspective view showing the push rod operation mechanism that can be used in the present invention; 15 FIG. 9B is a push rod shown in FIG. 9A Close-up side view of one part of the mechanism; Figure 10 is a perspective view of the putter similar to the push rod of Figure 7, but using a guard to prevent multiple items from being removed at a time; Figure 11 is another example of a putter In perspective, the value is the use of a guard; and Figure 12 is a simple hook-and-loop sensor to detect a perspective view of the item being removed from the nail. [Description of main component symbols] 10...22...sensor 20...FMS system, coolness monitoring system 24...FMS-IC unit 17 200807337 26···Input 42..Battery 28...cable 44··.Battery grab 30A-D···Gravity feed type display fixture 46...Push rod 32···Exit 48...Single switch push rod 34...Wireless transmitter 50...Multi-switch push rod 36... Wireless receiver 52... shield 38... paging transmitter 54... hook 40". alpha pager 18